Sprinkler System Installer

Description

Most commercial and industrial buildings are equipped with advanced sprinkler systems to quench potential fires. Since office towers and factories are so large, the potential for fire spreading is likely and one little fire extinguisher might not do the trick. Therefore, sprinklers act as a precautionary method of putting out a blaze, simulating a rain shower. Sprinkler system installers fabricate, install, test, maintain, inspect and repair sprinkler systems in various locations.

Sprinkler systems installers fit into the group of pipe trades, which deals with the installation, maintenance and repair of piping systems. They spend a great deal of their time installing sprinkler system pipelines in various commercial and industrial buildings. Accordingly, sprinkler system installers install wet and dry pipe sprinkler systems, carbon dioxide, chemical and foam extinguishing systems, stand pipe and hose systems and fire pump systems.

Other types of sprinkler systems are foam, fog and carbon dioxide systems, wet or dry standpipes, inside first aid and hose pipe systems, private fire hydrant systems, fire pumps and all other related equipment. Sprinkler system installers are in charge of maintaining and testing high and low pressure pipeline systems for the supply of water and other substances used for the purpose of fire protection.

Following a complex set of blueprints, the sprinkler system installer assembles a system that will bring the amount of water or other substance into the building from underground lines. They decide what type of pipe to use, the tools that will be necessary and the detailed steps that must be followed to accomplish the task. Sprinkler system installers perform various activities such as measuring, cutting, threading, bending and soldering.

Sprinkler system installers also install or repair fire protection and fire control systems, using either hand or power equipment, including all piping, tubing and accessories as well as standpipes and hose connections. They connect equipment and fittings to piping systems related to sprinkler and fire protection installation; and test sprinkler and fire protection systems for leaks with air or liquid pressure. They are also responsible for installing and repairing outside services when these services are used for fire protection. This includes examining drawings and specifications of sprinkler and fire protection systems or installations.

Sprinkler system installers are perfectionists by trade, since sprinklers leaks can cause disastrous repercussions. If an emergency situation arises such as a sprinkler leak, like doctors, they must diagnose the problem and create a quick solution. Therefore, when in action, they must always double-check everything they do and make accurate cuts into metal, connecting the pipes tightly. This type of accuracy is to prevent future problems from occurring. Leaky sprinklers could create a disastrous and costly flood in someone's office or flood and further damage documents.

Sprinkler system installers need excellent manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination and the ability to perform careful precision work. In general they are in good shape and feel comfortable working with heights. Sprinkler system installers have a clear understanding of mechanics and mathematics. They have the ability to read and understand complex blueprints and visualize these plans in three dimensions. The work is most rewarding for those who enjoy working with little direction or supervision.

Connect piping system to water mains, supply tanks, pumps, compressors and control equipment

Test system for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment

Inspect, maintain and repair piping, fixtures and controls including hydrant, pump and sprinkler head connections

Prepare cost estimates for clients

Sprinkler systems installers work primarily indoors, often in temporarily heated or unheated spaces. They work a standard 40-hour week but occasionally work longer hours to meet construction deadlines. There can be some risk of injury when working on construction sites.

Workplaces, Employers and Industries

Sprinkler system installers work in industrial operations, department stores, office buildings, hotels, schools, hospitals and residences. They are usually employed in the construction industry. Also, employment prospects change with seasonal and economic climates.

Long Term Career Potential

Experienced sprinkler systems installers may advance to supervisory positions or start their own businesses. With additional training, they can receive up to one year's credit and transfer their skills to other pipe trades such as steamfitter, pipefitter, plumber or gas fitter.

Educational Paths

Sprinkler system installers receive their training either through informal, on-the-job training or through an apprenticeship program. Trade certification can be obtained either through an apprenticeship program or after several years of work experience. While trade certification is not mandatory in all areas to become a sprinkler system installer, it can be a requirement for many employers and can also help secure employment.

Apprenticeship programs involve a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. A pre-apprenticeship course may also be available which takes about five to six months to complete at a community college and is designed to help you get connected with a good company to apprentice with. It is important to apprentice with a reputable company as that is your education. While some apprenticeship programs may not require a high school diploma, it is important to note that employers generally prefer to hire high school graduates.

Apprenticeships can vary, however a typical apprenticeship lasts four to five years. The apprenticeship is a paid position, however wages are about 50 percent of what an employer pays the journeyperson, with yearly increases. After successfully completing the apprenticeship requirements, their industry training and apprenticeship office awards the sprinkler system installer a certificate of completion.